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Free tax preparation is available thanks to the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program and amazing community volunteers to Saginaw County residents who cannot afford to have their taxes prepared for them. The River Rapids District Library will again be a VITA site this year. Appointments will be available on Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. beginning Feb. 5. Please call the library at (989) 845-3211 to make an appointment.

Winter Computer Classes:

Computer Basics – This class is for anyone with little or no computer experience. It’s a workshop designed for beginning computer users. Learn how to use the mouse with an online tutorial and work in a Windows environment. Basic computer vocabulary will also be covered. Class will meet on Mondays, Feb. 4 and 11 from 2–3 p.m. or Mondays, April 8 and 15 from 2–3 p.m. Please pre-register, as only 12 spots are available.

Basic Internet - For this workshop you must know how to type, even if it is the hunt and peck method. This class will cover Internet, web browsers, home pages, hypertext, menus and toolbars. Class will meet on Thursdays, Feb. 21 and 28, from 2–3 p.m. or Mondays, April 22 and 29, from 2–3 p.m. Please pre-register, as only 12 spots are available.

Microsoft Word - This class will cover screen layout, tips for typing in Word 2010, some basic editing such as selecting, replacing, inserting, using bullets and spell checking, using Print Preview, saving, closing, opening, printing and some helpful quick commands. Class will meet on Mondays, March 4 and 11, from 2–3 p.m. Please pre-register, as only 12 spots are available.

Microsoft Excel - This class will cover the basics of spreadsheets, formulas and charts. You must have prior computer experience for this class. This class will be offered in two-week one-hour sessions. Class will meet on Thursdays, March 21 and 28, from 2–3 p.m. Please pre-register, as only 12 spots are available. eReaders - Bring in your eReader to learn about downloading library eBooks. There will be several sessions held throughout the winter: Thursday, Feb. 14 at 1 p.m., and Thursday, March 14 at 1 p.m. Individual appointments can be made if these days/times do not meet your needs. Please call the library to register.

Tech Time - This time is for you to have individual technology questions answered. Please bring in your questions and your device, if you wish. We will have laptops available to use as well. No registration is necessary. There will be several sessions held throughout the winter: Monday, Feb. 18 at 1 p.m., Thursday, March 7 at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 11 at 1 p.m.

Book Discussion Group is reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh for our February book. We will be meeting Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. Stop in and pick up a copy to enjoy. Bring a friend; there will be yummy refreshments!

The Adult Winter Reading Program has begun and will run through March 16. Read (or listen to) books and win great prizes! No sign-up required; one prize entry per book.

We still have openings available for our Winter Story time for children in grades Kindergarten through Third Grade, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., through Feb. 12. Please call the library in advance to register your child for the program.

Winter Reading Program for all ages runs through Saturday, Feb. 16. Program rules and reading logs may be picked up at the library or on our website.

Beginning in January, Federal and State Tax Forms will be available at the library and online. Visit the library’s homepage and follow the direct links to IRS and State of Michigan forms and publications.

CORRECTION: The library board will meet on Sunday, Feb. 3, at 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend.